335
THE AUSTIN PAPER$
within Five years from the date named in the 2d. article. The said Com- missioners, firmly believing that the option, will be at once granted, by the said provisional Government.- 5 th • Ten per cent only of the amount subscribed to be paid prior to the decision of said Government with respect to the conditions Stipulated in the preceding Section.- And if the Government of Texas refuses to permit the subscribers to take the Lands at fifty Cents per acre as therein stipu- lated, then the 90 p % is not to be calld. for.- • New York April 2th 1836. [Addressed:] S. F. Austin Esqr. New York
MARY AUSTIN HOLLEY TO AUSTIN
Lexington, April 21, 1836
DEAR COUSIN,
We had an overflowing Meeting last night, adjourned from the Morning, when they merely organized, the Whig Convention being in session. I made up a party of ladies and we all went, and never was I so complimented- never so proud. And who do you think was the orator? The new Com- missioner from Texas Col: Lewis. It so happened-a lucky coincidence for once-that he arrived from Louisville--(where he told us they had a ,·ery enthusiastic Meeting)-in the afternoon. Mr. Higgins, the old gentle- man they went to see, was in the chair. Mr. Bryant mentioned the arrival of Col. Lewis and moved that a Committee be appointed to call on him- invite him to attend the meeting. He came accordingly his presence gave great spirit to the occasion. He addressed the audience and gave a clear exposition of Texas affairs. Perfect silence and attention prevailed. He occupied all the time. Several gentlemen were prepared to speak. Among them Mr Wiggington of Louisville, brother to him who started two days since with his company of volunteers. Mr Bradford, Mr Ferguson, and Gen: McCauley meant also to address the house. Some excellent resolu- tions and a memorial to Congress, prepared by Mr. Martin, passed unani- mously and with great applause. Never was anything done with more unanimity-more harmony. An Irish Catholic attempted to make some objections on the ground of Committing the Govt etc; and was instantly hissed and hooted down-with take him out-take him out etc. Col: Lewis was presented to me at the close and I attempted to thank him for his .fine Compliments. I expected him here this Morning, but learn he is occupied with visitors. Gen: McCauley just called. says they will have another meeting to night to obtain subscriptions, a chance for their cut and dried speeches. You see we are doing well. There is great spirit now. You began it,-by a little here and there we have kept it up, and Col: Lewis
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